Alreem Kamal (2020)
"One of the best parts of the LLM was being part of a diverse group of students hailing from various jurisdictions across the world."
Year of graduation: 2020
Name of programme: Public International Law LLM
Country: Bahrain
Job title: Legal Officer at London-based International Law NGO
What influenced your decision to choose a LLM at Queen Mary?
As a leading university and well-reputed law school, the decision to study at Queen Mary was an easy one. I was drawn in particular to the LLM programme’s strength, especially the Public International Law LLM’s rich selection of modules, and the university’s multicultural student body.
How did you find the teaching and learning?
I was fortunate to have professors who were leaders in their respective fields, and who actively sought to engage students and encourage the development of their own critical thoughts and opinions. This significantly enriched my classes and enabled me to hone my analytical skills, which eventually paved the way to my publication of articles on various international legal subjects, including my dissertation on universal jurisdiction and my coursework on international refugee law.
What was key about your programme/were there any highlights?
The Public International Law programme offered some of the most fundamental and critical modules for a career in public international law, which included the Use of Force, the Conduct of Hostilities, the Law of Treaties, WTO Law, International Refugee Law, and the Enforcement of International Criminal Law. These modules were excellently run and equipped me with an authoritative grasp of these respective fields. I was also very grateful (and surprised!) to receive the Public International Law Prize for best mark in my cohort.
Aside from academics, before the start of the semester, the university organized an LLM trip to Cumberland Lodge in Windsor. This gave us a chance to meet fellow students and enjoy the estate’s facilities together.
Did you combine modules across specialisations and if so, what were the advantages of this?
I took one module outside my specialization, which was the Business of Film. As an avid film and arts enthusiast, I found this class very exciting. Besides the thrilling experience of creating a film for the module, I also gained an understanding of intellectual property laws governing film production. It was fun to take a module unrelated to my other ones!
What did you enjoy about living in London whilst studying at CCLS?
London is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world. There is something for everyone in the city, and you will never find yourself tiring of it! Just try not to get too distracted!
Did you learn alongside and are you still in touch with classmates from other legal jurisdictions around the world? How did this add to your experience?
One of the best parts of the LLM was being part of a diverse group of students hailing from various jurisdictions across the world. It gave me an opportunity to understand how international law in particular is received, perceived, and implemented in different countries, taking into consideration history, culture, and politics. I am indeed still in touch with many of them!
What piece of insight or advice would you offer for future students?
My advice to future students is to stand firmly for justice and universal human rights. In light of atrocities in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, and elsewhere, as well as the climate emergency and growing global inequalities, it is crucial now more than ever to commit to upholding international law for all and to advocate for social and economic justice on a global scale. A prime example of standing up for human rights is the demonstrations by principled QMUL students against the genocide in Gaza. The university’s student body is active in a range of other global justice issues as well. Whatever you decide to pursue academically or professionally, remember you hold the power to influence the world in meaningful and transformative ways.
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